2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 1
2019Annual Report
MISSION: To end needless death and suffering due to asthma, allergies and related
conditions through outreach, education, advocacy and research.
2 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
STAFF
President and CEO:
Tonya Winders
Director of Advocacy:
Charmayne Anderson
Director of Education:
Sally Schoessler
Director of Outreach and Operations:
Marcela Gieminiani
Director of Research:
Mary Hart
Creative Director:
Paul Tury
Senior Editor/Communications Strategist:
Gary Fitzgerald
Accountant:
Jitasa
Treasurer:
Randolph Taylor, CPA
ADDRESS
8229 Boone Blvd. Suite 260
Vienna, VA 22182
703.641.9595
800.878.4403
AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org
facebook.com/AllergyAsthmaHQ
twitter.com/AllergyAsthmaHQ
instagram.com/AllergyAsthmaHQ
youtube.com/Breatherville
Allergy & Asthma Network is the leading national patient-centered
nonprofit organization advocating on behalf of the 60 million
Americans with allergies, asthma and related conditions. Founded
by Nancy Sander in 1985, its mission remains the same: To end
needless death and suffering due to asthma, allergies and related
conditions through outreach, education, advocacy and research.
As an innovator in encouraging family participation in treatment
plans, Allergy & Asthma Network specializes in making accurate
medical information relevant and understandable to all while
promoting standards of care that are proven to work. We
believe that integrating prevention with treatment helps reduce
emergency healthcare visits, keeps children in school and adults at
work, and allows participation in sports and other activities of daily
life.
The organization’s patient-centered philosophy makes an
empowering difference for individuals seeking disease
management advice in consumer- friendly language. From
newsletters, magazines, special publications in English and
Spanish, and a bilingual support toll-free helpline, the Network
speaks to patients’ needs in a way that achieves quantitative and
qualitative results.
This report highlights the Network’s 2019 programs, initiatives,
partnerships and resources.
DONATE TODAY
2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 3
As we enter 2020, Allergy & Asthma Network is poised to lead our community forward
with confidence and unwavering commitment built over the past 35 years. 2019 proved
to be another key year of success in advancing the mission to end needless death and
suffering due to allergy, asthma and related conditions through outreach, education,
advocacy and research.
In this annual report, you will see our members, volunteers, board, staff and leadership
hard at work – from community health fairs to international medical congresses; from
our award-winning publications to training community health workers; from Capitol Hill
to state legislatures; from the research bench to the bedside.
Each of the programs and resources outlined herein are evidence of the work we
dedicate ourselves to daily. You will hear from many Network stakeholders firsthand.
In 2019, we saw dozens of lives saved by stock epinephrine and albuterol school policies.
We witnessed hundreds of underserved children learning more about how to manage
their chronic conditions. We launched an international awareness campaign to address
steroid stewardship. We shaped clinical trials and published peer review articles in atopic
dermatitis, asthma, nasal polyposis and more.
We could not have this impact without your support .Thank you for your continued
commitment to the mission of Allergy & Asthma Network. We still have work to do as
we learn how to “Breathe Better Together”!
Tonya Winders, President & CEO John Tucker, Chair, Board of Directors
Looking Back, Looking Ahead
4 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
At Allergy & Asthma Network we often say an ENGAGED patient who is EDUCATED
with guidelines-based tools becomes a person who is EMPOWERED to create a
healthier life for themselves and their family. We believe in education for each patient
at their individual health-literacy level and every day we work hard to “walk our talk.”
In 2019, our Education Team goal has been to provide diverse, evidence-based
programs and resources using multichannels to better equip people with allergies,
asthma and related conditions to improve their health outcomes.
From our signature magazine, Allergy & Asthma Today, to our webinar series to our
award-winning Understanding Guides, to infographics, website updates and monthly
e-newsletters, we strive to make a difference in the lives of patients.
We’re proud to showcase our publications, programs and resources as we move the
mission forward each day!
Sally Schoessler
Director of Education
EDUCATION
2019 AT A GLANCE
Advances in Allergy and Asthma Webinar Series – Montlhy webinars supported by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) to provide the latest trends in topics related to asthma, allergies and related conditions to physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, asthma educators, patients and more. Most viewed in 2019:
-Vaping: What We Need to Know
-The Next Steps in Peanut Allergy and Anaphylaxis for the Infant: Special Considerations for this Growing Population
https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/category/webinars-updates/
2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 5
Online Learning HQ – Sixteen modules on allergy, asthma and related conditions provide continuing education credit to nurses and respiratory therapists. https://allergyasthmahqlms.com/
Ask the Allergist – A video-based series in which an expert on the field answers a frequently asked question. Total of 43 on demand. 12 made in 2019 https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/ask-the-allergist-podcasts-and-videos/
Monthly eNewsletters – Timely news, resources and information for patients and health care providers. Reaches over 47,000 per issue. Open rate 25%
Asthma Medication Assistance online tool –Graphical depiction of most inhaled medications with phone numbers and website links to direct patients to prescription assistant program. https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-asthma-medication/
Practical Tips for Daily Living with Allergies & Asthma – 25 short – casual videos created by Network partners to provide patients with tips to help them live with allergies and asthma.
Infographics –How to Avoid the September Asthma Peak; What Patients Want; What’s the Best Treatment for my Atopic Dermatitis?
“For several years, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has partnered with Allergy & Asthma Network to offer webinars for providers and patients. With over 34,000 listeners, we have collaborated to identify topics that are timely and provide vital information that makes a difference in the lives of patients. In August of 2019, I spoke about vaping – a subject that has been a high impact topic on the minds of patients.
We had close to 1000 people register and over 1100 people listened between the live presentation and the recorded, archived webinar. The feedback that we received was overwhelmingly positive and helps both organizations make a difference in the lives of patients.”
Todd Mahr, MDLaCrosse, WI2019 PresidentAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
BE PROACTIVE AND PREVENTIVE
10 Steps 1. Schedule an asthma checkup with your child’s doctor before the school year begins.
2. Make sure all asthma medications are refilled prior to start of school year.
3. Take long-acting asthma medications as prescribed by your child’s doctor.
4. Keep or carry medications at school, particularly a quick-relief inhaler.
5. Keep a peak flow meter, a device that signals brewing lung problems.
6. Encourage frequent handwashing to reduce risk of catching a cold or a virus.
7. Identify and avoid environmental triggers; if pollen is a problem, talk with teachers about staying inside from outdoor activities.
8. Get the flu vaccine.
9. Follow the Asthma Action Plan and provide one to the school nurse.
10. Maintain good asthma control throughout the entire year, even if symptoms are well controlled during summer.
How to AVOID the September Asthma Peak
Asthma flares requiring a hospital or ER visit start to spike in early-to-mid September and decline in mid-October.
3rd week of September = Peak week for asthma flares, hospitalizations and ER visits
WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
A Perfect Storm of Triggers• Return to school = exposure to multiple allergens (indoor mold, animal
dander) and respiratory irritants (air pollutants from idling school buses)
• High levels of ragweed and mold allergens in outside air
• Easy to catch cold germs and viruses, including the flu
• Irregular medication use from summer months – when children don’t
follow their asthma medication schedule in summer, they’re more at risk
for asthma flares in September when they’re exposed to more allergens
and triggers
• Anxiety and stress associated with the new school year
ASTHMA STATS
Sources: American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology; National Jewish Health
25% of all children’s asthma
HOSPITALIZATIONS occur in September
10.5
MILLION
school days missed annually due to asthma
14.2 MILLION work days missed annually due to asthma
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
What’s the Best Treatment for My Atopic Dermatitis?
If moisturization (including soak-and-seal after bathing) and management strategies (reducing exposures
to allergens and irritants) are not fully effective in treating your atopic dermatitis, your doctor may
recommend topical or systemic medications. Discuss the pros and cons of each medication option.
You Make the Call
Take the complete Shared Decision Making Tool at EczemaRelief.acaai.org. Share the results with your doctor so that you both come to a decision on the best treatment plan for you.
Topical TreatmentsMedicated ointments, creams, lotions, gels, oils or sprays that you apply to the skin.
Systemic TreatmentsInjectable biologics, oral corticosteroids or phototherapy designed to treat the entire body – typically prescribed
for patients with persistent, moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis who need more than topical treatments.
* May depend on your health insurance coverage
Corticosteroids Calcineurin inhibitors Crisaborole 2%
Use: Controls redness and itching; apply 1-2X per day; approved for children, including infants as young as 3 months
For use on eyelids, armpits, mouth area, groin; apply 1-2X per day; approved for children ages 2 or older
For use on eyelids, armpits, mouth area, groin; apply 1-2X per day; approved for children ages 2 or older
Side
effects:
Redness, stretch marks, skin thinning, spider veins, face rash
Stinging or burning may occur upon first use; very slight risk of infection
Stinging or burning sensation may occur
Cost*: Low to moderate cost Moderate cost High cost
Dupilumab (Dupixent®)
Oral or injectable corticosteroids
Phototherapy (light therapy)
Use: Biologic medication injected under the skin every 2 weeks
Daily pill or long-acting injection given at doctor’s office – should not be used long-term due to side effects; approved for children
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to reduce inflammation and itch and boost the body’s ability to fight bacteria; can be applied to specific areas or entire body; approved for children ages 6 and older
Side
effects:
Redness or itching at injection site; eye or eyelid inflammation; allergic reaction
Weakened muscles; bone thinning; eye problems; diabetes; sleep problems; mood swings or behavior changes; symptoms may worsen post-treatment
Sunburn; skin aging; risk of skin cancer
Cost*: High cost Low cost Moderate to high cost
6 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
Allergy & Asthma Today magazine– Articles and personal stories distributed for free to patients and health care providers offices. Reach is over 2,000,000.
Understanding Overlap Conditions –Addresses 25 rare or related conditions that mimic asthma or allergy, making them more difficult to diagnosis. 5500 copies distributed.
Posters (updated)
Respiratory Treatment Poster (English & Spanish) –More than 1 million distributed.
Respiratory Treatment Side by Side. More than 8000 distributed.
Epinephrine Treatment. More than 7000 distributed
Conference for Asthma Research and Education (CARE) Conference – A one-day conference at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago (Illinois) to address asthma issues in underserved communities. Over 125 families and health professionals on site. A collaboration with the American Thoracic Society Public Advisory Roundtable and Science and Outcomes of Allergy & Asthma Research.
Presentations – We presented to local and national groups including the American Thoracic Society, School Based Health Alliance, Texas Children’s Hospital, National Association of School Nurses, Association of Asthma Educators and CHEST International.
Fall/Winter 2019 • Volume 17, Issue 2 • $4.95
Taking Asthma
And Allergies
To School
Shared Decision
Making and
Childhood Asthma
‘Food Allergy
Advice To My
Teenage Self’
Managing Eczema:
To Bathe Or Not
To Bathe
Don’t Overlook
Eye Allergies
TAKE ME
Whic
h Airlines
M
ake the G
rad
e?
Spring/Summer 2019 • Volume 17, Issue 1 • $4.95
Room to Breathe:
Understanding
Severe Asthma
Is Dust Mite
Immunotherapy
Right for You?
Amusement Parks
Take Food Allergies
Seriously
Breaking the
Itch-Scratch
Cycle of Eczema
How to
Treat Spring
Allergies
TAKE ME
Actress Tia Mowry
of ‘Sister, Sister’
fame shares how she
manages her son’s
peanut allergy – and
encourages
others to do
the same.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
“Producing videos for the Network was a great learning tool for me, and great teaching tool for school nurses. Showing how to make using inhalers fun, makes medication administration an educational moment! Keeping a few items (pinwheels, small bubblers, and straws) assists students in a light way (no lectures), how to exhale and inhale properly, getting the medication into the lungs. This is an important tool and I hope helps students and school nurses.”
Sandra Moritz, Med, BS, RN, NCSN School Nurse Consultant
2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 7
More than 25 million Americans have asthma, but not all have equal access to high-
quality healthcare. The disease is more common among African-American, Hispanic/
Latino and Native American populations, particularly those in poor, urban areas. For this
reason our focus in 2019 was to work towards eliminate health disparities in care using
a multichannel approach to reach communities of color. We did that by participating
in health fairs and local events in targeted areas; expanding our volunteer program;
continuing to offer a bilingual toll-free help line; developing and disseminating cultural
competent educational materials in English and Spanish; training community health
workers to conduct environmental home visits; partnering with National Hispanic
Medical Association, National Medical Association and the CDC to increase patient
engagement; and bringing together asthma partners from all 50 states (including
Puerto Rico) to a national meeting to discuss ways to advance guidelines-based care for
all.
Marcela Gieminiani
Director of Outreach
“Being the national media spokesperson for Allergy & Asthma Network has been life changing for me. As a board-certified allergist and immunologist, I give my patients advice on a daily basis on how to stay healthy, control their illness, and how to avoid life threatening circumstances. Through being a media spokesperson, I have been blessed to give this same advice to millions of patients and their families
whom I may never meet. If that helps prevent even one exacerbation, a life-threatening ER visit, or hospital admission, or death I feel I have succeeded. I am eternally grateful to this organization and the great work they are doing to prevent these bad outcomes for all patients and families near and far.”
Purvi Parikh, MD
OUTREACH
2019 AT A GLANCE
The Network & the Media
To expand awareness of the Network and the conditions we had the honor to work alongside board certified allergist Purvi Parikh, MD, as our national media spokesperson
Media impresions in 2019: > 1.3 billion.
Social media: Expanded users visits 60%
Visit: www.facebook.com/AllergyAsthmaHQ; www.twitter.com/AllergyAsthmaHQ and www.instagram.com/AllergyAsthmaHQ
Toll-Free Help line (800.878.4403)
Direct line of communication for patients and families (English & Spanish). >300 calls.
Membership: The Network offers free and paid membership to provide access to all its educational material, resources and support. 4,300 new members .
https://members.allergyasthmanetwork.org/general/register_member_type.asp?
8 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
Asthma Screenings
In partnership with Not One More Life, conducted asthma screenings and asthma education events for African American families in Atlanta, Chicago an Omaha. 150 families reached.
“Partnering with local churches is a great way to reach at-risk populations and build trust with patients in need of better quality care..”
LeRoy Graham, MD
Professional Partners
We partner with local and national medical-professional associations to conduct programs and to provide educational tools and resources for their practices and their patients. AAAAI; NHMA, NMA, Texas Allergy (TAAIS), Chest, ATS, AAE, NASN, AAP, ACAAI, AARC.
National Asthma Control Program
Awareness and education for Hispanic/Latino communities. With the support of the U.S. Centers for Control Disease and Prevention (CDC) 2,350 Hispanic families were reached.
OCS Overexposed - Oral Corticoesteroid Stewardship Campaign
A national education campaign to raise awareness of appropriate oral corticosteroid use and reveal OCS overuse for what it often is – a treatment plan failure. This campaign is led by the Network and is comprised of more than 10 partnering groups including patient advocacy organizations, medical societies and industry stakeholders. https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/about-us/
“I’m so privileged to be part of Allergy & Asthma Network. I have severe asthma and the Network provides great support, education and research. Getting the information out and sharing it with others is very important to me. The materials they provide are amazing.”
Brenda Young, patient
Outreach Service Coordinators (OSCs). Expanded volunteers to all 50 states
“In 2019 we expanded the program all across the United States and
participated in health fairs and
community events in 32
cities were we offered asthma
and allergies education and
distributed free educational
material to more than 9000 families. We
are grateful to have so many amazing people as part of our mission to continue helping others breathe better.”
Tracy Bush, Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator
2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 9
Community Health Worker Trainings
In partnership with state asthma programs, we trained more than 100 community health workers in Ohio and Texas on in-home visits and interventions for indoor asthma management in low-income communities.
“Community health workers are the kingpin of the medical home and so important for families with asthma. They are the liaison between the family and the medical team. They help the family understand what is going on and what is needed on their (the family’s) end. I spent a week traveling
thru the state of Ohio providing CHW training to people from all paths in life and they walked away knowing that they would be able to make a change in a family’s life.”
Gayle Higgins, AE, CHW training facilitator
Telehealth Coach Program
Developed a telehealth platform and recruited more than 40 healthcare professionals to begin offering services in 2020. Includes asthma & food allergy coach visits to develop better self-management skills.
https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/telehealth-for-asthma-allergies/
2019 USAsthma Summit
Hosted in Houston, TX, we brought together over 900 people live and remotely (via livestream) from all 50 states and Puerto Rico to advance guidelines-based care and eliminate health disparities among communities of color in the United States.
“The USAsthma Summit was an excellent event and I learned new information about asthma data in the United States. It also helped me to connect with other asthma program managers and hear what they are doing in their communities for asthma patients and their families.”
Ibis Montalvo Félix- MPHE, Ed.Dc, Asthma Program Manager, Puerto Rico Department of Health, San Juan, Puerto Rico
10 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
Health advocacy is essential to protect patient health and safety. Advocates play a
crucial role in raising awareness, educating policymakers and the general public,
removing barriers and making issues widely known to make medical care and
treatment more accessible and effective. Healthcare challenges need thoughtful
solutions to support patients, their families and communities. Engaging stakeholders
and key constituencies are also important in this effort. Each year, the Network
actively engages in advocacy at the federal and state levels of government to raise
visibility and influence policy to improve care and promote lifesaving research for the
millions of people affected by asthma, allergies and related conditions.
In 2019, our advocacy efforts aligned with our policy priorities which included:
Access to Care, Affordable Medications and Treatments, Asthma and Allergy Federal
Funding, Health Equity, and updates to Food Package Labels to include sesame and
allergen cross-contact.
Charmayne Anderson
Director of Advocacy
Advocated for federal policies, programs and regulations that support patients and their families Federal funding for fiscal year (FY) 2020 was provided for the National Institutes of Health (NIH); the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - which includes the National Asthma Control Program; the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to support the medical workforce; the Environmental Protection Agency, which includes environmental oversight activities and asthma programming; and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Healthy Homes Initiative that addresses health and safety hazards in the home.
Engaged with other groups to add “Food Allergies” to the list of conditions eligible to be studied under the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DOD) Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program, which includes medical research projects relevant to military health. This effort also led to further investment in the Consortium of Food Allergy Research (CoFAR) established by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) to support clinical research on food allergies.
ADVOCACY
2019 AT A GLANCE
2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 11
Worked with members in Congress to have bills reintroduced in the 116th Congress, including the School-Based Allergies and Asthma Management Program Act that incentivizes states to implement comprehensive asthma and allergy management programs in schools, and the Safe Step Act which requires health plans to provide exceptions for medications subject to step therapy protocol. Network comments and testimony were also shared with federal agencies on matters, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulations over air and water quality and the approval of new treatment therapies for children and teens with peanut allergies at the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Advocated for policies at the state level to support individuals living with chronic and life-threatening conditions. Our grassroots efforts included patient testimonies, thousands of letters of support and stakeholder engagements which resulted in laws in over 20 states covering areas such as school stock of albuterol, step therapy and prior authorization, food allergy guidelines, public entity stock of epinephrine, latex allergies, and telehealth.
“It is hard for me to articulate my experience with Allergy & Asthma Network. To say it has been a blessing would be an understatement!! My relationship started with the Network a little over a year ago. I feel the Network has become like family. The Network has had a huge impact on our small foundation, The Brendon McLarty Memorial Foundation, in so many ways. We had a goal to get legislation passed in our state. Yet, we were not even sure where to begin. With the guidance and encouragement of the Network, we were able to advocate and successfully see SB 381 signed into law in April of 2019. The Network coached me through conference calls, provided us with written material to advocate, and so much more. We are incredibly grateful I am so passionate about. I am honored to join the Board of Directors. It is truly an incredible opportunity!”
Jennifer Blair, Executive Director, Brendon McClarty Memorial Foundation
“Since joining the board of Allergy & Asthma Network and as a member of the Advocacy Committee, I have truly enjoyed being involved with the Network’s advocacy efforts. The best part is our engagement during Allergy & Asthma Day Capitol Hill (AADCH). Each year the Hill visits are well-organized, more productive and result in greater engagement with members of Congress on key issue areas and successful policy changes that benefit patients and their families.”
Anthony Cook, Patient and Network Board Member
“Allergy & Asthma Network is a powerful force for change that approaches each challenge with a deep understanding of the voice of the patient. When looking for an advocacy partner, I always feel confident working alongside the Network. Together, we have presented strong cases to the federal government, set an achievable roadmap for change, and thoughtfully pursued protections for millions of patients living with food allergies in the United States. Although advocating for change is challenging work, the Network has made the process educational and effective.”
Erin Malawer, Executive Director, AllergyStrong
12 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
Allergy & Asthma Day Capitol Hill (AADCH)
In its 22nd year, 2019 brought together members of Congress, staffers, patients, families, caregivers, advocates, healthcare professionals, industry leaders and other stakeholders to discuss critical legislative and regulatory issues facing patients living with asthma, allergies and related conditions. We had record attendance with over 150 participants advocating on Capitol Hill.
In all, patients, families, healthcare providers and patient advocates tallied 125 visits with members of Congress in a single day.
Our virtual advocacy day event ensure that federal policies, regulations and resources are in place to support optimal health outcomes for people with chronic and life-threatening conditions.
More on Advocacy: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/advocacy/
“The Network has been irreplaceable partner as we at ACAAI work together to help our patients. The biggest victories have been the preservation of allergy shots and allowing students to carry injectable epinephrine and rescue inhalers. These treatments might not be available today without the continued advocacy efforts of Allergy & Asthma Network and the bringing together of many stakeholders to raise awareness and advocate for allergy and asthma policies during the annual Allergy & Asthma Day Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.”
Allen Meadows, MD, President, American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI)
2019 ANNUAL REPORT • Allergy & Asthma Network 13
RESEARCH
“I am a Network Patient Advisor and have participated in many patient focus groups discussing asthma treatments that include various medications and how they effect me. The most recent group will change the future of core asthma outcomes measured for clinical trials. I believe my voice matters and the patient focus groups conducted by the Network will have an impact on future development of asthma treatment and clinical practice.”
Charnette Darrington Zaskoda, severe asthma patient
Patient engagement in research and development is critical to innovation and greater
understanding of asthma and allergies. Allergy & Asthma Network conducts focus
groups and surveys patients and families. Armed with data, the Network serves as the
voice of those with allergies, asthma and related conditions, and is able to articulate
needs in an influential way with doctors, decision makers and industry professionals.
As Allergy & Asthma Network moves into its 35th year, we look back and are proud
of the advancements we contributed to in treatment for allergies, asthma and other
related conditions. Research for the Network has evolved over the past few years and
now plays a more significant role in our overall mission by including the patient voice in
both clinical trials, investigator research initiatives, and patient and family focus groups.
In the past year, we completed more surveys, added patient advisory boards, and
developed an asthma patient registry.
Mary Hart
Director of Research
PREPARE PCORI Project (Person Empowered Asthma Relieve)
To recruit 1,200 African-American and Hispanic/Latino adults, ages 18 to 75, who have asthma, use an ICS inhaler, and have had an asthma attack within the past year to ensure patient voice is heard and incorporated into all aspects of the study. www.preparestudy.net
Patient Activation Measurement Study (PAM)
To evaluate the impact of online peer support offered by the ‘Living with Asthma’ community on its newly registered members using validated outcomes measures and by analyzing self-reported information from users before and after joining the community relating to their attitude towards managing their condition.
HealthUnlocked – Living with Asthma Community
This online community provides a space for people to share advice, receive support and meet others who truly understand what you’re going through.The Network administers this community and can pose questions to gain global insight from patients on specific health related issues. 513 members
2019 AT A GLANCE
14 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
coreAsthma – Core Outcomes in Moderate to Severe Asthma
To reach agreement on a “core set” of 10-12 patient-reported outcomes to be used in clinical trials of therapies for moderate to severe asthma. Includes patients, caregivers, patient advocates, health care providers, payers, and other stakeholders. The Network served as coreAsthma Advisory Board Members.
Antidote
To survey 4,000 patients with a variety of conditions and uncover how people think about clinical trials, and why they may participate – or not. Results will provide valuable insight that can enable deeper engagement with patients and physicians in more significant ways.
More on Research Projects https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/research/research-projects/
“As a board-certified physician in asthma and immunology, pediatrics and a clinical research investigator, I work each day with my patients and their families diagnosed with asthma, allergies, eczema and related conditions to improve their health and find better ways to treat and prevent diseases. Clinical Research is so important! Allergy & Asthma Network plays an important role in clinical research by conducting physician surveys and patient focus groups to gain better understanding of real-world physician practice and their use of shared-decision making tools.”
Margaret A. Adair
LEADERSHIPAllergy & Asthma Network is governed by a multidisciplinary Board of Directors. The Network also receives guidance from its medical
advisory board, which reviews and approves all content and provides insight into the latest research in allergy and asthma care.
MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD
William E. Berger, MD
Antonio Castillo, MD
Mary Cataletto, MD, AE-C
Eileen Censullo, MBA, FAARC, RRT
Bradley E. Chipps, MD
Peyton A. Eggleston, MD
Andrea Holka, AE-C
Andrea Jensen, CHES, AE-C
Neil R. MacIntyre Jr., MD
Erin Malawer
Michael H. Mellon, MD
Prem Menon, MD
Purvi Parikh, MD
Dennis Williams, PharmD
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
John Tucker, Chair
Randy Taylor, Treasurer
Marla Adair
William Berger, MD
Randy Brown, AE-C, MD
Cristin Buckley
Tony Cook
Gayle Higgins, FNP
Donna Matlach
Prem Menon, MD
Sandra Moritz, MEd, RN
Jodie Stabinski, FNP
Dennis Williams, PharmD
15 Allergy & Asthma Network • 2019 ANNUAL REPORT
THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
Programs 74.96%
Administration 19%
Fundraising 6.03%
FINANCIAL STANDING
Allergy & Asthma Network is a 501(c)(3) charitable
organization. The organization conducts its mission-driven
work due to individual donations, corporate contributions,
resource sales and government grant funds.
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